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I have lost both of my hives this winter for some reason. One hive was weak going into the winter so I thought it would die, but the second one was strong last year. I talked to a local beekeeper and he said it was due to the trachea mites. He also told me how to treat them with chemicals. I would prefer to not use chemicals if possible. I know about the screened bottom board and the 4.9 mm cells for verroa mites, but don't know of natural ways for trachea mites.

I would definitely start any new package on 4.9mm. It's no different than starting them on regular foundation and you've already done the first shake down (well, the package bee company did). You'll be one step ahead.